Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs
Grilled chicken thighs (or chicken breasts) with a richly flavorful and bright garlic and herb marinade! This super simple recipe packs a pleasant, savory punch.
Marinated Grilled Chicken Thighs
I’ve made this grilled chicken recipe five times in the last few weeks, enjoying the delightful flavors each time. So, I figured it’s one of those must-share, must-try recipes you’ll want to try, too. You can never have too many grilled chicken recipes, but some will become regular favorites, and this is likely to be one of them.
This recipe is especially significant if you have an herb garden with abundant fresh herbs. If you don’t want to buy all the herbs listed, use fresh parsley and basil and substitute dried herbs (1/3 of the amounts listed) for the rest. Keeping at least these two fresh herbs is essential to maintaining the recipe’s integrity.
After one taste, you know why I’m. There is a lot of freshness to savor in every bite, paired with a deliciously inviting aromatic scent. People will walk by the grill and instantly crave whatever is cooking.
Garlic Herb Grilled Chicken Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: I don’t recommend using bone-in thighs, as they take longer to cook, and the herbs might burn when they’re done.
- Olive oil: Stick with olive oil for the best flavor; substitutes are not recommended.
- Lemon juice: Only use fresh lemon juice.
- Fresh basil, parsley, oregano, rosemary, and thyme create a delicious Italian-style blend!
- Garlic: Use fresh garlic, not bottled or dried, for the best flavor.
- Salt and pepper: I use nearly one teaspoon of each.
How to Make the Marinade and Grill the Chicken Thighs
Make garlic herb marinade: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, basil, parsley, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste (about one teaspoon each).
Pour marinade over chicken in a bag: Place chicken in a gallon-size resealable bag and pour the mixture over the chicken. Seal the bag while pressing out excess air.
Rub with marinade and let rest in the fridge. Rub the marinade over the chicken, turning pieces to evenly coat with herbs and garlic. Transfer to the refrigerator and let marinate for 1–8 hours.
Heat grill and cook chicken: Preheat a gas grill over medium-high heat to about 425 degrees. Grill chicken until the center registers 165 degrees in the thickest portion, about 5 minutes per side.
Rest and garnish: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with more fresh basil and parsley.
How Long to Grill Chicken Thighs
Grill time can vary based on several factors, such as grill temperature, outside temperature, distance from flame, and the initial temperature of the chicken. For approximate times cooking at medium-high heat:
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 4–6 oz. each): 5–6 minutes per side.
- Bone-in chicken thighs: Plan for 10–12 minutes per side.
Always test for doneness to 165 degrees in the thickest portion with an instant-read thermometer.
Variations
- Try other herb blends, such as a poultry herb blend with parsley, thyme, rosemary, sage, and marjoram, or a chimichurri-style blend with cilantro, parsley, and oregano.
- Add extra garlic.
- Use extra virgin olive oil for another flavor boost.
- Substitute red or white wine vinegar for the lemon juice.
- Use chicken breasts instead of thighs.
What to Serve with Grilled Chicken Thighs
Here are some great side dishes to serve with this grilled chicken thigh recipe:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob
- Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
- Roasted Vegetables with Garlic and Herbs
- Honey-roasted carrots (or glazed carrots for a no-oven option)
- Roasted Garlic Parmesan Zucchini, Squash, and Tomatoes
- Roasted Broccoli
How to Reheat Grilled Chicken Thighs
- Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees on a baking sheet lined with foil and grease until heated through, about 5–10 minutes. Tent with foil if needed.
- Microwave: Reheat individual servings on a microwave-safe plate at 50% power for a few minutes.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet with olive oil over medium-low heat until heated.
Are you looking for a delicious grilled chicken sandwich recipe or wondering how long it takes to grill chicken thighs? This garlic herb grilled chicken recipe is perfect for various meals, including chicken breast, chicken legs, and chicken salad. Try it with Chick-fil-A grilled nuggets for a fun twist!
